An Ohio Senate Committee is currently considering legislation that would provide workers' compensation benefits to peace officers, firefighters and emergency medical workers who are diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) arising from their employment regardless of whether they have suffered any physical injuries. Current Ohio law does not provide compensation for a psychiatric condition unless the worker has a related physical injury or was forced into sexual conduct. The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation estimated if 18% of first responders filed for PTSD-only claims, the change could cost employers $182 million annually and may double premiums for public employers. Other states, including North Dakota, Connecticut and South Carolina, have considered similar legislation.
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